Santiago’s best guided tours let you experience this historic pilgrimage city efficiently and meaningfully. The city’s top experiences include the excellent Cathedral Tour, which gives you skip-the-line access and expert commentary about St. James and his famous shrine. For wine lovers, the Granbazán Bodega tour combines local wine tasting with gourmet tapas – it’s a wonderful introduction to Galician cuisine. The UNESCO old town walking tour remains my favorite way to understand the city’s medieval heart and hidden corners. For independent types, there’s a well-produced audio tour that lets you explore at your own pace. If you’re heading south, consider the 8-day journey to Lisbon, which connects two of Iberia’s most fascinating cities. These are our favorite tours in Santiago:
Good To Know
- The Guided Tour of Bodegas Granbazán offers a highly-rated winery experience with gourmet tapas and snacks for $19.40 per person in Pontevedra, Spain.
- The Guided Tour with Cathedral Tickets provides insights into St. James history and access to the Cathedral Museum, with an optional upgrade for the Portico of Glory.
- The Santiago De Compostela Walking Tour offers a personalized exploration of the UNESCO-designated old town, with a customizable itinerary based on specific interests.
- The Secrets of Santiago De Compostela Audio Tour is a self-guided option that focuses on the notable buildings surrounding Praza do Obradoiro, with lifetime access to the audio, maps, and geodata.
- The 8-Day Guided Tour from Santiago to Lisbon showcases the landscapes and cultural highlights of the region, including a Porto wine tasting, with a maximum of 50 travelers.
Guided Tour of Bodegas Granbazán
The Guided Tour of Bodegas Granbazán offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of Spanish winemaking.
Located in Pontevedra, Spain, the tour is highly recommended, with 99% of travelers endorsing it and a rating of 4.9/5 stars from 86 reviews.
During the tour, guests will explore the winery, enjoy gourmet tapas and snacks, and learn from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers and provides private transportation, making it an accessible and intimate experience.
Priced at $19.40 per person, the tour offers great value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers consistently praise the interesting and informative nature of the experience, the friendly guide, and the beautiful surroundings.
Read our full review: Guided Tour of Bodegas Granbazán Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Tour Cathedral Tickets Included With Optional Portico
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the Guided Tour with Cathedral Tickets Included and Optional Portico is a highly recommended option.
Operated by OptimusTours, this tour boasts a Badge of Excellence and a 94% recommendation rate from travelers. Highlights include insights into the history of St. James and the cathedral, as well as access to the Cathedral Museum and the Portico of Glory with the optional upgrade.
Knowledgeable guides lead small groups of up to 35 travelers, using single-use headsets and radio guides to ensure an engaging experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.
Read our full review: Guided Tour Cathedral Tickets Included With Optional Portico Review
Book now: Check availability
Santiago De Compostela: Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Set out on a personalized walking tour of Santiago de Compostela’s UNESCO-designated old town with the guidance of a knowledgeable local.
You’ll visit key landmarks like the Plaza del Obradoiro, Palacio de Raxoi, Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, Plaza de la Quintana, and Plaza de la Azabachería, learning about the rich history of this ancient pilgrimage site.
The customizable itinerary allows you to focus on your specific interests. Meeting at Praza de Fonseca, the tour can be tailored to your location, though it may end at a different spot.
While not wheelchair accessible, the walking tour is a great way to explore Santiago de Compostela’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide.
Read our full review: Santiago De Compostela: Walking Tour With a Local Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Secrets of Santiago De Compostela: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour
Explore Santiago de Compostela’s captivating history and hidden gems through this private self-guided audio tour. Priced at $9.99 per person, the “Secrets of Santiago de Compostela” tour provides lifetime access to explore the city at your own pace.
With offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, you’ll have a comprehensive guide to the city’s notable buildings surrounding the Praza do Obradoiro meeting point.
While some reviews report technical issues, the tour’s self-paced format allows for thorough exploration. Just note that it’s not wheelchair accessible, and entrance fees for museums or attractions are excluded.
Read our full review: Secrets of Santiago De Compostela: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
8-Day Guided Tour From Santiago to Lisbon
Travelers seeking a comprehensive journey from Santiago de Compostela to Lisbon can embark on an 8-day guided tour that showcases the stunning landscapes and cultural highlights along the way.
The tour starts in Santiago de Compostela, with a maximum of 50 travelers. Highlights include visits to a wine cellar for Porto wine tasting, and multi-lingual tour escorts in Porto and Lisbon.
The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 3 dinners, and arrival/departure transfers. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and only one piece of luggage per person is permitted.
The tour may operate with a bilingual driver if the group size is less than 12. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 6 days in advance.
Read our full review: 8-Day Guided Tour From Santiago to Lisbon Review
Book now: Check availability
Discover the Beauty of Rías Altas on a Private Guided Tour
Nestled along the rugged, picturesque coastline of Galicia, the Rías Altas region offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Discover this enchanting area on a private guided tour from Santiago de Compostela. The 8-hour excursion includes pickup and drop-off, a private luxury vehicle, and an expert local guide to provide in-depth insights.
Priced from $738.13 per person, with a lowest price guarantee, the tour is accessible to most travelers, though not wheelchair-friendly.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and the option to reserve now and pay later, this private tour ensures a flexible and personalized experience in the stunning Rías Altas.
Read our full review: Discover the Beauty of Rías Altas on a Private Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do the Walking Tours Typically Last?
Walking tours typically last between 2-3 hours, allowing participants ample time to explore the sights and gain insights from the knowledgeable guides. The duration can vary depending on the specific tour and the pace of the group.
Are the Tours Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
The tours are generally suitable for people with mobility issues, though the terrain can be challenging in some areas. Most tour operators offer accommodations and alternative transportation options for those with limited mobility.
Can I Book a Private or Group Tour?
Yes, you can book private or group tours in Santiago de Compostela. Many tour companies offer customized tours to accommodate different group sizes, schedules, and accessibility needs to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience for all participants.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to the Starting Point?
The tours often include transportation to the starting point. Many tour operators provide pick-up and drop-off services, making it convenient for participants to get to the tour’s meeting location. This can be especially helpful for those unfamiliar with the area.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tours?
Most guided tours don’t have age restrictions, but some may require participants to be able to walk longer distances. Tour operators typically provide details on physical requirements to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.
The Sum Up
Santiago de Compostela offers a variety of guided tours that cater to different interests. From exploring local wineries to discovering the city’s historic landmarks, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you prefer a private self-guided experience or a group tour, these options provide an in-depth look at the rich culture and heritage of this captivating destination.